One of the most heartbreaking tragedies in a parent’s life is the loss of a child. Sadly, sometimes children die as a result of accidents and negligence. When a child is killed by a so-called family pet, many Arizona residents start to express support for laws that ban the ownership of a potentially dangerous breed.
Though the state officially declared breed-specific laws illegal a few years ago, many cities and towns have their own codes about owning potentially dangerous dogs such as pit bulls and mixes. In fact, the mother of a child who was killed in a horrific attack in another state, recently spoke out against enacting breed-specific restrictions. Instead, she called for owners to take greater responsibility in ensuring that their dogs will not become a threat to their community.
The owner of the dogs who mauled the 9-year-old child is facing second-degree murder charges in connection with her death. He was also charged with failing to control a dangerous animal and had received warnings about keeping the dogs restrained before the attack. He is in police custody on a $2 million bail awaiting further proceedings.
In spite of this mother’s tragic loss, she stated that she hopes some changes can be enacted that will prevent other families from suffering the loss of a loved one. She wants owners to be aware of the terrible consequences that can follow when a potentially dangerous breed is not properly cared for and is also asking for stricter penalties to be enacted. Arizona is a strict liability state, which holds owners accountable for any unprovoked injuries or property damages that a dog causes. Victims of these frightening attacks can seek compensation for their damages through a civil lawsuit.
